Starting a jogging program is one of of the very best things you can do for your overall health, fitness and well-being. Unfortunately, some beginners tend to struggle at first and many may give up altogether.
A lot of this is due to exaggerated media claims which tend to make jogging out to be a difficult, painful process rather than the enjoyable, sociable and empowering experience that it can and should be.
Here are some tips for those who want to get started on a jogging program but don't know how to go about it.
3 Hacks to Starting a Jogging Program
1. Start slowly
The typical portrayal of a jogger is someone who is huffing and puffing and struggling along the road in thinly disguised misery. The truth is that experienced runners do most of their running at an easy, comfortable pace that allows them to carry on a conversation as they run.When you're just starting out, take your time and go slowly. The majority of your fitness comes from just covering the distance. Speed is a secondary concern at best. It will come in time as you gain fitness and strength.
2. Find a group
There's no doubt that it can be tough to go it alone when you are just starting out. Check out your local specialty running store for running clubs, learn to run programs, or fitness groups where you can meet like minded people, get some sound advice and find others to lean on for support as you get started.
3. Get good shoes
One of the things I like best about running is that it doesn't require a lot of gear, but good shoes are a must. If you don't know what shoes to buy, I suggest you go to your nearest specialty running store and speak to one of the associates there. You'll get some good advice as to what shoes suit your body type and provide the most comfort and injury protection.
Conclusion
Make sure that you progress slowly. Don't be in a hurry to run that first marathon. Of all the problems I see beginning runners face, 90% of them can be traced back to trying to do too much, too soon. Add to your daily distance runs slowly and don't be afraid to cut back a little if you are feeling overly tired from day to day.
The greatest benefits come in the first few minutes of the run anyway, so stay within yourself and don't push beyond your comfort zone. In time, you will be covering distances you never dreamed of at speeds you would have thought impossible.
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